One of the meeting’s primary focuses was the application regarding a property on Pine Avenue. Elizabeth Nerian, represented by attorney Jamie Norcross, sought to demolish an existing dwelling and construct a new one. The proposal, which involved significant alterations from previous plans, aimed to address concerns about height and design. The height was reduced from 29.5 feet to 26.2 feet, and modifications to the roofline were made to address massing concerns. Visual representations were provided. Public comments were invited, but none were made, leading to a detailed board discussion about the proposed shed’s location and compliance with zoning regulations. The applicant committed to relocating the shed to adhere to setback requirements. Board members, including David Vach and David Nixon, expressed satisfaction with the revised application, noting its improved compatibility with the neighborhood. The board voted unanimously to approve the application with standard construction conditions.

Another discussion involved an application for a property on Old Mill Road. Bill Lichfield represented Sean and Anne Rosi, proposing to modernize their 1945-built home by demolishing the existing structure and constructing a new, more spacious bungalow-style dwelling. The existing lot, measuring only 12,000 square feet in the R40 zoning district, required a special permit due to its non-conformity. The proposed building coverage would increase from 12.1% to 14.9%, slightly under the maximum allowed. Lichfield emphasized the design’s compatibility with neighborhood aesthetics and the use of traditional residential styles. Concerns about potential impacts on the natural environment were addressed, with plans to preserve existing pine trees or replace them through landscaping efforts. Neighbors submitted letters of support, highlighting the new home’s potential positive impact compared to seasonal residences. The board raised questions about the proposed structure’s height, particularly due to the lot’s slope. The design’s height was clarified to be approximately 26 feet from the foundation to the ridge, with no significant detriment to the neighborhood. The board expressed no opposition, and the proposal received support from members, recognizing the applicant’s efforts to engage with the community.

A subsequent application reviewed involved the property on Barnhill Lane. The applicant sought to replace an existing non-conforming dwelling with a new structure, having previously faced objections about the street setback and building form. The revised design moved the house further from the street and altered the dormer structure to fit the neighborhood’s aesthetic. The board noted the challenges posed by the sloped lot, which limited repositioning options, and acknowledged improvements made to address prior concerns. As a result, the board expressed support for the revised proposal.

The meeting also featured a discussion on an application by the Costellos for a property involving design changes due to significant slope issues. The board considered the average grade plane for height measurement, with the street view height reaching approximately 25 feet. Public comments included a letter of support from an abutter and a submission from the Health Department confirming no sewage concerns. Board member David Nixon raised concerns about a bonus room potentially being used as an additional bedroom, highlighting the town’s ongoing sewer situation. Despite this, the board approved the application, acknowledging design improvements and the applicant’s transparency about future plans for a sewer hookup.

Finally, the board reviewed an application to convert an existing garage into living space and add a new garage with an artist studio above. The applicant emphasized compliance with zoning regulations and the maintenance of property character. Public comments included concerns from neighbors about construction noise and parking, which were addressed through conditions on construction hours. The board deliberated on the proposal, ultimately approving it with stipulations to limit construction during peak summer months and restrict working hours.